Shani Zinn, of Niles, is a volunteer with the Niles Salvation Army.  A five-year volunteer, Zinn has helped to prepare and cook for the Lunch Bunch, a program that offers free food and fellowship to people on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Additionally, Zinn has braved the harsh winter temperatures to volunteer as a bell ringer during the Niles Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, which helps to raise funds for the organization’s operational budget.

How did you get involved with the Niles Salvation Army?

Well, I have always worked in the medical field and I kind of liked to help people. [The Niles Salvation Army] seemed like a place where I could do that. The Salvation Army is a very selfless group and I just believe in what they stand for, so I wanted to associate myself with them in some way and this was the way I could do it.

Initially, I started helping with their Feed the Sheep program, which is a backpack program for kids in need of food on the weekends. I would help pack bags. One day, the volunteer coordinator came down and asked if anybody could come and help cook a meal, because they did not have anyone to do it. I volunteered and they asked me to continue to do that, because there were enough people to help with the backpacks, so I kind of just fell into it.

What do you do for the Niles Salvation Army?

Primarily, I cook for the what is called the Lunch Bunch. The Salvation Army has a free lunch program for anyone who wants to come in three days a week, and I help out with the program twice a week.

Other than being cold, [being a bell ringer.] can be pretty fun. With the exception of one time, I rang outside of the Walmart. Because it was so cold most of the times, I wore a Santa Claus face [warmer] as I rang the bell, so I got a lot of chuckles and smiles from people. People were generous. 

There was a severe shortage of bell ringers this year.

Did that mean you had to work longer shifts?

No. Tim Douglas, the coordinator of volunteer services, lets you give what you can give. They are really flexible.

[The fundraiser campaign] is where the Niles Salvation Army gets finding for their operational budget.

What do you enjoy most about your volunteer work?

[I enjoy] the sociability and the chance to give back to people. I have made some new friends and I just get a sense of well-being helping others.

Why would you encourage others to volunteer at the Niles Salvation Army?

As with any volunteer opportunity, I think the person that volunteers gets more out of it than the people that they serve. There is a real need in Niles. The poverty level is high and there are just so many different ways that you can help people at the Niles Salvation Army. You do not need to cook. There are lots of opportunities to do other things.

On another note, I want to recognize the new Lieutenants Joseph and Kendra Hixenbaugh. I am really happy that they have come to Niles and so far, I think they have done a wonderful job. I think Niles is going to see a whole lot more out of the Salvation Army than they have in the last several years.